A recent merger with American Nutrition, Inc. makes this pet food and treat co-manufacturer the largest in the United States.

Paul Wagstaff will focus on developing the company’s innovation portfolio and managing consumer product marketing following the company’s acquisition of American Nutrition, Inc.

Together, the companies could produce one billion lbs of pet food per year.

The transaction creates one of the largest independent manufacturers of super premium pet food in the US.

The Bern, Kansas-based pet food manufacturer produces pet food for 35 of the top super- and ultra-premium brands in the US.

C.J. Foods said Lortscher Animal Nutrition will continue to operate as a separate business unit under its current name.